New study finds Gen Z fuelling ‘great resignation’ in workforce

These numbers come after nearly two years of significant upheaval and disruption to our traditional work model.

Where most of us went into an office five days a week pre-pandemic, a large chunk of the workforce is now operating on flexible timetables that accommodate for offices at home.

We’re able to have more agency over our day and schedule – making the older, more rigid system seem archaic and unappealing by comparison. This is particularly true for Gen Z, many of whom have entered the workforce for the first-time during lockdowns and social distancing.

Couple this with a greater desire to be self-made and entrepreneurial and it shouldn’t be a surprise that young people are eager to move around and find what suits them, especially if they’re not currently happy.

According to US News, over 9 million positions are open across the country and many businesses are struggling to find workers.

This is mainly due to pandemic restrictions, care responsibilities, and low wages, and suggests that Gen Z’s constant moving of employment may not be sustainable in the long-term.

The good news is that big business is responding to market changes, albeit slowly. Another study this week by consultancy firm Galagher found that 72% of companies either raised or plan to raise their base salaries this year.

So, we could be looking at more incentives to get young people on board with businesses in the immediate future. As the urge to be self-sufficient becomes ever stronger in a changing world, corporations and companies must keep up.

We’ll have to see if things balance out more as the world finds its footing again and emerges out of the pandemic.